Java is an efficient coding language used in several areas of tech, ranging from back-side programming to full-stack programming. Little wonder, most developers prefer using Java. Java code written on one platform can be run on another using the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). As one of the oldest programming languages, Java has become a cornerstone of the modern tech industry and a launching pad for developing other languages.

If you use a Windows device and want to write Java programs, this article is for you. However, if you have a device that runs the Ubuntu operating system, you can learn how to install Java on Ubuntu in this post – itsfoss.com

Now, let’s figure out why Java is important as a cross-platform coding language and how to install it on your Windows device. 

Why Is Java Important?

You might wonder why Java, a coding language released in 1995, is still relevant in 2022 when there are more modern languages. The answer to this question lies in the huge demand for Java experts. According to a July 2022 report by Statista, developers proficient in either Java or Javascript make up 40% of the most sought-after developers by recruiters.

Additionally, Java has some features which give it an edge over other languages. Apart from the multiplatform part of Java, some additional features include:

Components 

Java’s JVM and JRE suite units ensure that the program can independently perform data management, error detection, and memory management. In performing these tasks, there is no need for an outside host, thereby guaranteeing its security. 

Updates

Every six months, Java releases newer versions of the program incorporating up-to-date features that cater to the ever-changing needs of developers. Innovations such as blockchain, machine learning, and data analysis are done with Java programming. 

Object-Oriented Programming

Unlike in other programming languages where you write procedures or methods, in Java, you can create objects that contain data and processes. Java’s object-oriented system enables you to create reusable code and gives your program a defined structure to follow. 

Java Is a Robust Language

Java can handle errors that occur during execution and detect incorrect input of data. Java does this through its automatic garbage collection, which disposes of unacceptable objects on a Java application. In addition, Java’s robustness is shown in its superb memory management ability. 

Multithreading

Multithreading in Java enables simultaneous execution of parts of a program, thereby utilizing the CPU completely. You can create threads in two ways; extending the thread class or implementing the runnable interface. 

Security 

Java’s security consists of several APIs and security algorithms, including cryptography to protect the source codes. Java guarantees the security of your programs by encrypting the access keys to your system and also ensures that the programs are tamper-proof. 

Open Source 

The public can access Java for use and modification to suit their needs. You can also use Java to write other open-source programs. This feature enhances creativity and keeps Java programming innovative as ideas from other developers are welcome in delivering a unique product. 

Java Is Simple to Learn

As a front-runner to object-oriented programming, Java’s syntax is written in English and, therefore, is easy to read. The less complex nature of Java makes it a great language to learn for beginner programmers. Java also helps beginners grasp other languages faster. 

How to Install Java on Windows?

Now that you know the benefits of writing programs with Java and want to install it on your Windows device, follow this guide for the correct installation. 

  1. Check if there is a preinstalled version of Java on your device. In most cases, Java comes installed on some devices, and in such instances, you don’t have to download it again. To check if Java is preinstalled, open a command, input ‘cmd’ in the search space, and then press Enter. Then run the command java-version. If the search result is Java not recognized, then it is not preinstalled on the system. 
  2. Now proceed to download the Java Development Kit (JDK), which houses the software suite you intend to download. 
  3. Open your preferred browser on your device and download the JDK from Oracle. 
  4. Open the downloads folder and run the JDK software program. 
  5. Accept the Oracle license agreement.
  6. Locate and select the suitable JDK download link for your Windows version and save it. 
  7. Double-click the saved file and commence the installation. Follow the prompts and accept the terms.
  8. Proceed to set the environment variable for JDK and JRE. 

In setting the environment variables, do the following:

  • Firstly tap on the start menu on your PC and search for environment variables. 
  •  Click on the result “Edit the system environment variables.” 
  • Next, click the environment variables under the system properties tab. 
  • Select “path” and tap the edit button. 
  • Another tab opens, and then select “new” and input the path in the bin directory. 
  • Now click OK and exit the editing page. 

Next step: Add the JAVA_HOME variable. This is important because, during programming, you will discover that some applications need the JAVA_HOME variable to function efficiently. To add, follow these steps:

  • Go to the Environment variables window under system variables, then tap “new” to create a new variable. 
  • Label it as JAVA_HOME 
  • Under the variable value field, paste the path to the JDK directory and tap OK. 
  • Confirm the changes made. 

Please note that if you want to check if the installation was successful, run the “java-version” command in the command prompt, and if done well, produce the java version installed. To be double sure, write a simple line of code and compile it.

You can use these simple steps if you have no idea about writing and compiling codes. 

To begin, open a text editor, like Notepad++, write a simple line of code and save the file as the java source file. 

After writing the codes, begin compilation of the test by following these steps:

  • Go to the command prompt, convert the directory to the file location and use syntax to compile. 
  • After compiling the program, it will generate a .class file in the directory. 
  • Run the program using a syntax like java [file name] 

The output should display the correct message indicating that the Java program works correctly. 

Wrap Up

The step-by-step guide is easy to follow, and if done correctly, you should have the JDK running on your Windows device in a short while. Happy coding! 

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